‘No contest’ between arguments of both sides

The Progressive Democrats haves always applauded people who work hard and achieve success.

In many ways our central purpose has been about trying to create an environment where our people can reach their potential.

One man who has achieved great success is Declan Ganley. He has vast business interests, much of them abroad. He’s a man who will prosper irrespective of the result of the Lisbon Treaty referendum. But the question is how will Ireland prosper in the event of a no vote. In my view, with global economic uncertainty now, this is not the time for Ireland to isolate itself from its position of influence in the EU.

Declan Ganley, one Irish businessman, is calling for a no vote.

But let us not forget that the ICTU, which represents hundreds of thousands or workers, is calling for a yes vote. The employer’s organisation, IBEC, and the Small Firms Association are also calling for a yes vote because they believe it to be in the best interests of Irish workers and business people.

Who do I believe? No contest.

Senator Ciarán Cannon

Leinster House

Kildare Street

Dublin 2